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2021 Mazda CX-30 Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 12, 2026·Daniel Wilson
2021 Mazda CX-30 Report

Overall Score

7.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2021 CX-30 earns top marks for safety, with 5-star ratings in frontal and side crash tests.
  • Expect combined fuel economy around 25 MPG, making it a reasonably efficient choice for daily driving.
  • While generally well-regarded, a high TSB count indicates potential for minor electrical or system glitches that may require dealer attention.
  • The power liftgate system was subject to a recall, and its operation should be thoroughly checked.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2021 Mazda CX-30

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 presents a stylish and refined option in the subcompact crossover segment. It boasts a premium interior, sharp handling, and a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a smooth six-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is standard on many trims, enhancing its all-weather capability. While its safety scores are excellent, achieving a 5-star overall rating from NHTSA, the reliability picture is more nuanced. A high volume of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) suggests potential for minor issues, despite a low count of official recalls and zero consumer complaints in the provided data.

Critical Failure Risk

The power liftgate may lower unexpectedly on inclines due to a software glitch or mechanical issue. This recall addresses a potential safety concern and inconvenience.

Early detection can help you avoid a $300-$800 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls2
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
25
MPG
City
22
MPG
Highway
30
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.1/ 10

Practicality

4.5/ 10

The score is dragged down by its weaker day-to-day practicality signals.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Drivers seeking a stylish and engaging subcompact crossover with a premium feel.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Shoppers prioritizing absolute long-term mechanical bulletproofness above all else.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2021 Mazda CX-30 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Mazda CX-30.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic
Drivetrain
4-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
25

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Most Common Issues

1. Power Liftgate Malfunction

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Tire Valve Defect

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes - Inspect Wiper Blades

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
2 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2021 Mazda CX-30 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Mazda CX-30 is 9.1/10. Reliability score is 9.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2021 Mazda CX-30 for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 4.5/10. The score is dragged down by its weaker day-to-day practicality signals. EPA combined economy is 25 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.

What is the overall score for the 2021 Mazda CX-30?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Mazda CX-30 is 7.9/10. Overall score is 7.9/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.7/10. Practicality 4.5/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Mazda CX-30?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes - Inspect Wiper Blades at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Power Liftgate System (typical at 40,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $800).

What engine is in the 2021 Mazda CX-30?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.5.

What transmission does the 2021 Mazda CX-30 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Mazda CX-30, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is 4-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Mazda CX-30?▾

EPA combined estimate is 25 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Mazda CX-30?▾

14 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2021 Mazda CX-30?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Mazda CX-30, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2021 Mazda CX-30?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Mazda CX-30, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2021 Mazda CX-30 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Mazda CX-30, drivetrain is 4-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Mazda CX-30?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2021 Mazda CX-30?▾

This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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